On first glance, it’s all parties and fun. However, it should go without saying that there is a far more serious reason that people go to college. It has been statistically proven that it leads to the better jobs – and this is something that is not likely to change.
This is something that Patrick Dwyer Financial Advisor knows all about. Now an established figure in the financial industry, he is quick to point out that a lot of his early success came following an impressive education in Miami.
Bearing this in mind, we have today tapped into his knowledge to see just how the typical freshman should prepare as they approach their first year of college.
Take your reading seriously
One of the biggest misconceptions about college is that all of the material you need is stuck within the slideshows and seminars that you will be attending. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you are attending Miami university, or one at the completely opposite end of the country, you need background reading to ensure that you get the very most out of things.
This background reading will either prepare you for a seminar, or supplement any information that has been passed to you. In terms of preparation, make sure that you start reading before you attend your college. This will give you a head-start over all of your other classmates, and ensure that you can throw yourself fully in to that initial coursework.
You will need to use technology to your advantage
We are now in the era where technology plays a part in everything, and your education is included within this. In short, you are going to need to use it to your advantage. This means knowing how to use a computer efficiently; whether it’s typing up your coursework or preparing a presentation. Let’s also talk about formatting; some universities pay particular attention to the way in which you format your work so make sure you are comfortable with this as well.
Your research skills fall into this category as well. Once upon a time it might have been trawling through books in the library, but now it’s all about trawling the world wide web (and books, of course). Make sure you know how to do this effectively.
Consider your early job prospects
This doesn’t relate to the job you are going to get after completing the course, but whether or not you are going to get one during your studies.
Let’s not forget that college is hugely expensive, and there will be occasions where your finances will take a hit. Will you net a high-paying job in the financial industry? Probably not, but you might get a job that will help you pay the bills and release a bit of stress as the end of the year approaches and your money is running low. Before you go, weigh up whether this is something that you need, and if it is, what is a suitable option.
